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Window Tinting can have many benefits for drivers and passengers.
Imagine the car or truck of your dreams pulling up in front of you – it likely has a custom paint job, sick rims, loads of accessories… and a window tinting. If you are considering tinting your car’s windows, you need to read this article – we cover why people do it, how it’s done, the best brands on the market and the top 6 benefits.
We’re all different, and so people have many different reasons for wanting to tint the windows in their vehicle. One of the most commonly cited reasons that people give for tinting their car windows is the increased privacy possible with a darker window color. Window tinting do not prevent the driver and passengers from seeing out, but they do prevent people outside the car from clearly seeing inside. Tinting is therefore very popular with celebrities, sports stars, entrepreneurs and people who desire privacy for religious or personal reasons.
That said, celebs can sometimes run afoul of the law with their tinted windows – in 2013, Kim Kardashian was pulled over for having too dark a tint on the windows of her Mercedes G-Wagon! (Which is good to note – always check the local laws in your area before having a tint added to your car windows. Here is a handy link to the tinting laws in Texas.)
There are plenty of other, more practical reasons for tinting your car’s windows – after all, some people simply like the stylish way that it looks and are keen to add resale value to their vehicle. For those of us in Houston Texas, there are many people interested in keeping the temperature of their car’s interior as cool as possible without spending more on air conditioning and fuel. With temperatures regularly topping 100 degrees, every little bit of help counts – tinted windows can really keep temperatures – and costs – down.
Do you have a different reason for wanting to tint your car windows? Leave us a comment in the comment section below.
A handy chart showing the different gradations of window tint
Window tinting is a process that involves applying a darker shade to the windows and glass on automotive vehicles in order to reduce or reflect sunlight, thereby reducing glare and keeping the automotive cooler overall. Tinting can be used to protect automobiles from the sun’s damaging heat and radiation, as well as providing privacy to the vehicle’s users and security for items left in the vehicle.
Window tinting film blocks some of the ultraviolet radiation from entering the vehicle, and this is useful for reducing the amount of heat entering the vehicle. As well as blocking some of the ultraviolet radiation, window tinting also blocks out some of the visible light and solar heat.
Window tinting can be advantageous for maintaining an air-conditioning system within the vehicle, as it can get to work more quickly, using less fuel. Window tinting can also protect your vehicle’s internal fixtures and fittings by reducing color fade and stopping upholstery from cracking. This is a great way to take care of your car and maintain your investment for many years to come, all for an affordable price tag.
Tint film is the most affordable form of window tinting. A window tinting film is applied as a thin layer on top of the glass. The film is actually a strong form of polyester laminate that has been treated to give the desired effect.
This type of tinting is prone to collecting air bubbles when it is applied to the glass, and so it is always best to get trained professionals to apply the film to ensure a professional and seamless look. Hurricane Auto offers a lifetime warranty on all tint film products, and they can ensure that your windows look their very best.
There are a variety of types of film that you can choose from, including metallic, flat and mirrored. Here are the main categories:
Dyed film technology – These non-reflective films offer the best when it comes to privacy, UV protection, signal friendliness and moderate heat control, all at a reasonable price point. Think of these as a reliable all around option that meet many different needs.
Metalized film technology – These films reflect solar heat, and are an upgrade from the dyed film options due to their superior heat control. If you really want to cool your car, go for this option. That said, these films can interfere with the antennas built into new car technology, so this might not be your best bet for a new car.
Advanced nano-ceramic technology – Advanced nano-ceramic technology will give you and your passengers a cool and comfortable driving experience, and they will not interfere with any signals. Sure, the price point is a bit higher than the other options, but we can help you browse through the Solar Gard range for something that fits within your budget.
Tint film is often said to strengthen the glass on your automobile, as it can help to prevent the glass from shattering if you get into an accident. However, it is worth mentioning that as the film ages, it can crack and peel. If this happens, the film would not be as effective in an accident. To avoid this, always work with a reputable dealer, and choose a company that offers a lifetime warranty. Learn more about automotive window tinting visit http://hurricaneauto.com/services/window-tinting/automotive-window-tint/.
Ensure that your window tints stay on the right side of the law.
Window tinting can be subject to stringent laws that often vary from state to state, so it is always important to check what laws will apply to your vehicle and what tint you are permitted to have.
In Texas, the darkness of the tinting can vary for the back and rear windows, but the front side windows must allow 25% of light in. For the windshield, a non-reflective tint is only allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line. The tint’s reflection is also tightly controlled in Texas, as the front and back side windows must not be more than 25% reflective. Red, blue and amber tint colors are also prohibited by Texan state law, and if you decide to use tint on the back window, then dual side mirrors are required.
There are medical exemptions for window tinting. If you have a medical reason for a darker tint then you can be exempted from the limits mentioned above – that said, you will need to consult the specific state laws. When applying a window tint to your vehicle it is important to make sure that everything is legitimate. You should make sure that you always check with your vendor that the film they are using is certified and licensed. The vendor should be able to help you with any questions that you have about window tinting state laws, and to ensure your automotive is compliant. The team at Hurricane Auto is also happy to help you with any questions about this matter.
Remember, the level of window tinting that you’re allowed to install varies from state to state, and so it is important to check the state laws to make sure your window tinting is acceptable in your state. Always ask your retailer if you’re unsure of the specifics of the law and they should be able to assist you.
Window tinting is often a personal choice, and so it will depend of the next buyer’s preferences as to whether they like the look and effect of the tint. The date that the tint was carried out (and therefore the amount of time that the interior upholstery and carpet has been exposed to the sun’s rays) can also affect the decision of the prospective buyer. They will likely want to know if the tint was added early in the vehicle’s life to protect the interior, or whether some damage to the interior had already been done prior to the tinting work.
The professionalism and the quality of the tint will also be a major deciding factor for whether the tint is beneficial to the sale. If the tint has cracks, or air bubbles and looks amateurish, then this will probably not be perceived as a benefit for the automotive.
There are many top quality brands offering window tint on the market, including Solar Gard, Johnson window film, Madico, Llumar and 3M. Your dealer will discuss the best brand for your specific needs and desires, taking the type of tint and your budget into consideration. At Hurricane Auto, we are happy to help you determine the best option for your car, and we believe strongly in the Solar Gard brand. Over time, we have seen excellent quality results with Solar Gard, not to mention that their customer service and lifetime warranty are the best in the business.
It is best to ask your preferred retailer what tint is best for your car, ensuring that it complies with your state laws. They will steer you towards the best quality option for your specific budget.
Prices for window tinting can vary drastically, depending on how you want the job to be completed, what style of tint you want and the model of your car or truck.
If you choose a film option, then this will be your most affordable option – but always remember that film may be subject to air bubbles, cracking and needing replacement. That said, this shouldn’t be too much of a problem, because any reputable dealer will only install a brand that offers a lifetime warranty in the first place. Working with a reputable dealer is key – never skimp on quality.
If you want to save money on window tinting in Texas, then you will likely be attracted to a film that utilizes dyed film technology. This type of window tint film is a solid all around option that will keep your vehicle cool, maintain your privacy and protect your eyes from UV rays and glare. It’s the most affordable type of tint film, so if you’re looking to save a buck or two but you still want then benefits of tinted windows, this is likely your best bet.
Just some of the reasons why you should install tinted windows.
Window tinting is a great way to give you privacy in your vehicle – tinting can ensure that no one can sneak a look at any belongings you’ve left in your car. If a thief can’t see what’s in your car, they’re way less likely to risk breaking in and turning up nothing of value
They will protect your car interior.
Strong sunlight can cause your dashboard, upholstery and carpets to fade, and intense heat can cause your leather interiors to crack. Window tinting reduces the glare, helping to keep your car in good condition and protecting your investment over time.
Keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter.
Window tinting can reduce the sun’s damaging rays from entering your vehicle. This way, you can stay cool and you don’t have to put your air-conditioning into overdrive! In winter, window tinting reduces excessive heat loss from your car, meaning that you stay cosier in your vehicle without having to crank the heater.
Prevents glare and eases driving.
The glare of the sun can be an awful strain on your eyes while driving, and can inhibit what you can see on the road. Window tinting reduces the glare, giving you a better vision of the road and reducing the strain on your eyes.
They can help to prevent skin damage and UV rays
Window tinting blocks 99% of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that come from the direct sun contact. Window tinting can help to protect against skin damage by blocking 99% of the rays from entering your vehicle – a huge plus if you spend hours in your car commuting each week.
Give your vehicle an edge.
Window tinting can really enhance the look of your vehicle. There are so many different window tints on the market that you can choose the shade that best complements your vehicle and gives your car celebrity treatment. Just don’t get pulled over like Kim K!
Interested in anything you’ve read above? Want to know more about the best tints for your budget? Call or email us today to find out more about window tinting options for your car or truck.
